He chose purpose over pause: Pope Francis’s final years defied advice

Despite declining health, Pope Francis refused to slow down in his later years, determined to serve till the end. According to Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister, the late pontiff often ignored counsel to rest, choosing instead to “die with his boots on.”

In an interview with the BBC, Gallagher described a man of warmth, kindness, and unwavering conviction. “He didn’t shy away from hard decisions,” he said. “I admired that, even if I didn’t always agree.”

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away at 88 after a prolonged illness that included a hospital stay for double pneumonia. His death leaves a deep void, Gallagher said, calling him “the voice of the voiceless.”

Driven by empathy, the Pope championed the struggles of migrants, women, and children in war zones. His outreach was tireless—he hadn’t taken a vacation in nearly 67 years. His first trip beyond Rome was to Lampedusa to meet migrants. Over time, he visited more than 60 nations, often against advice.

Gallagher recalled the Pope’s insistence on visiting the Central African Republic despite safety warnings. “He told us, ‘I’ll go alone if I must,’” Gallagher said, admiring his boldness.

The Pope preferred the company of everyday people over dignitaries and found joy in connecting with youth. “He was disarmingly human,” said Gallagher, recalling his final words: “Don’t lose your sense of humour.”

Over 250,000 mourners paid tribute as he lay in state at St. Peter’s Basilica.

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